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As we approach the final stretch of the 2024 college football season, the race for the playoffs is heating up, with some of the top teams jockeying for position. The latest rankings are revealing some familiar faces but also shining a spotlight on rising programs from outside the power conferences. With Oregon maintaining its undefeated status and Texas continuing to win despite challenges, the playoff picture is starting to take shape, but plenty of uncertainty remains. Teams like Arizona State, South Carolina, and Boise State are making strong cases for inclusion, and each game could have major playoff implications.
The strength of the Big 12, SEC, and ACC has been on full display throughout the season, but it’s the underdog squads that have generated the most excitement. SMU’s dominance in the ACC, combined with standout performances by teams like Indiana and South Carolina, has turned this season into one of the most unpredictable in recent memory. With top-tier programs facing off in crucial games like the Big 12 Championship and the Mountain West Title, the stakes couldn’t be higher for these contenders, and every win counts.
As rivalry week has shown, college football is never short of drama. From high-intensity matchups to heated moments on and off the field, the excitement of this season has kept fans on the edge of their seats. Whether it’s Oregon’s dominant performances or South Carolina’s impressive late-game heroics, the path to the playoff is wide open, and every team in contention will need to bring their best if they hope to claim a spot in the coveted final four. The next few weeks will determine who’s in and who’s out, and the college football world is watching closely.
Boise State Broncos (12th) – They are seen as the top Group of Five team and need a victory to secure their playoff spot, with running back Ashton Genty receiving Heisman consideration.
South Carolina Gamecocks (11th) – Despite having three losses, they are considered one of the best teams with those losses, playing well in close games, including a near-win over Alabama.
Arizona State Sun Devils (10th) – Clinched a spot in the Big 12 championship, seen as the best team in the Big 12.
Tennessee Volunteers (9th) – With an excellent defense and quarterback Nico Iamaleava improving, Tennessee is locked for the playoffs despite missing the SEC title game.
SMU Mustangs (8th) – Dominant in the ACC, SMU remains perfect after their opening loss to BYU and is expected to make the playoffs.
Indiana Hoosiers (7th) – Finished with a historic 11-1 record, earning Coach of the Year honors, though their performance in the trenches remains a concern.
Ohio State Buckeyes (6th) – A disappointing loss to Michigan places Ohio State in a tough spot, though they remain a playoff contender.
Georgia Bulldogs (5th) – Struggled against Georgia Tech, but their ability to win in tight situations continues to be impressive.
Penn State Nittany Lions (4th) – Made it to the Big Ten Championship and will face Oregon, with a lot of potential in their matchup.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish (3rd) – Despite a weak schedule, their defense shines, especially in their win against USC, earning them a playoff spot.
Texas Longhorns (2nd) – Though not always pretty, Texas keeps winning, with strong defensive play carrying them through close games.
Oregon Ducks (1st) – The only undefeated team, Oregon is considered the best team in college football due to their consistent dominance.
The breakdown highlights teams’ current form and the potential for chaos in the playoff picture, with intriguing matchups coming up.
